Thursday, June 30, 2016

The East Coast Hockey League announced their Protected Lists as submitted by each of its member teams. The Quad City Mallards have twenty one players listed on their protected list one is former Vernon Vipers forward Pearce Eviston.Eviston has spent the past two seasons with the Mallards, played In only 2 games last season going pointless.

Eviston didnt play hockey in 2013-14 before returning in September 2014. Eviston started the 2014-15 season in Idaho after signing a try-out contract with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Idaho Steelheads. Eviston attended the Steelheads Training Camp but never played a game, was released on October 13th 2014. Eviston then an unrestricted free agent signed with Idaho on October 22nd 2014 before being traded to Quad City on the same day. Eviston played parts of one season in Vernon (2012-13). The Vipers acquired the playing rights of Eviston from the Victoria Grizzlies on Seprember 19th 2011 for Jarryd Ten Vaanholt. Eviston currently playing with the WHL Portland Winterhawks at the time of the trade, joined & signed with the Vipers on August 3rd 2012. Eviston played in 34 regular season games with Vernon before being sent home. The Vipers ended up trading Eviston to Victoria on January 10th 2013 for future considerations.

The Quad City Mallards today announced a 21-man protected list. Placing players on the Mallards’ protected list is the start of the process used to reserve the rights to players for the 2016-17 season.

Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the collective bargaining agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association which state that teams shall retain the rights to each player that:

1. Signed a standard player contract in 2015-16 with the member team, and has not been traded or released, OR

2. Signed an SPC in 2015-16, and was recalled to the National Hockey League/American Hockey League or International Ice Hockey Federation team, and has not been traded or released, OR

3. Had received a qualifying offer last summer for the current season, did not sign an SPC, and has not been traded or released, OR

4. Has been suspended by the member team or the ECHL, and has not been traded or released, OR

5. Signed an SPC on or after the first day of the 2015-16 regular season, then subsequently signed an NHL/AHL contract, and has not been traded or released, OR

6. Has executed the ECHL retirement form, and has not been traded or released.

The ECHL also announced that teams must complete all future consideration trades by 2 p.m. CT on June 13 and that teams must submit their season-ending roster by 2 p.m. CT on June 15.

Season-ending rosters may include up to 20 players and cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2015-16.

The Mallards will open their twentieth season in the Quad Cities on Friday, October 14 at 7:05 p.m. against the Fort Wayne Komets at the iWireless Center. Mallards 2016-17 season tickets are now available. Season ticket holders enjoy significant savings of the walk-up ticket price and receive a host of exclusive benefits. For more season ticket information, fans can contact the Mallards at 309-277-1364 or info@myqcmallards.com.

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Former Vernon Vipers forward Ryan Bayda wont be back with the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) Straubing Tigers. The Tigers are a professional men's ice hockey team, based in Straubing, Germany, which plays in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga.

After just one season with the Tigers Bayda collected (13-goals-13-assists-26-points) in 44 games last season.

After playing three years at the University of North Dakota Bayda played the following eight seasons split between the American Hockey League & NHL with five different teams (Lowell, Manitoba, Albany, Wilkes-Barrie & Carolina). Since the 2010-11 season Bayda has played the past six seasons in Germany with three different teams (Nurnberg, Augsburger & Staubing).

Bayda played one season in Vernon (1998-99) playing in 45 games with the Vipers collecting (24-goals-58-assists-82-points). Bayda was drafted 80th overall in Round 3 of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Carolina Huricanes. Bayda played parts of five seasons with the Huricanes before signing with the Pittsburgh Penguins but played the 2009-10 season with the Penguins farm club the AHL Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins.

The cadre plannings have begun for the persons responsible Straubing of tiger with the elimination from the Playoffs in 2016 in the Maundy Thursday for the new playing time so properly. Now on Easter Monday the first personnel decisions announce Straubing of tiger.

Sebastian Osterloh, Alexander Dotzler, Blaine Down, Dustin Strahlmeier, Ryan Bayda and Denny will leave Urbane the Gäubodenstädter. Besides Mirko Höfflin will return to the eagle Mannheim. The attacker was lent in summer, 2015 for a year from Mannheim to Straubing. From official side one thanks the parting actors for her application and wishes them privately as well as professionally all the best for the future.

Defender Maury Edwards has signed new two annual contracts near Straubing of tiger. The 29-year-old counted in the tramped season to the achievement bearers in the defensive group and, moreover, came on substantial 36 Scorerpunkte in 56 plays. In particular in the Playoffs the Canadian with three hits as well as two presentations had a decisive interest in the team's success. Here his respective 'Game-Winner' are unforgotten after lengthening against Ingolstadt and Munich. ' Defensively as well as offensively Maury has impressed us very much, also that he has mastered the rearrangement from second on the first league so fast ', explains Jason Dunham. ' From the character he likewise fits very well to 'us, the sporty leader gets formally in the dreams.

With Dimitri Pätzold an old friend returns to the powder tower. The goalkeeper was active already in 2010/2011 for Straubing and knows the DEL from the Effeff. Moreover, has 33-year-old 146 AHL-sowie 3 NHL applications in his vita stand. ' Dimitri has experienced in the hockey already a lot. With his extensive experience he offers us on the Goalieposition more possibilities ', lets Jason Dunham look though.

In the defense the followers on James Bettauer (Augsburg may be glad panther) and Max Renner (Starbulls Rosenheim).

James Bettauer could be convincing with his present stations in Germany (Hamburg and Augsburg) always as an Allrounder and collect Scorerpunkte, besides, also diligently. His best season had 25-year-old in 2014/2015 in the AEV tricot (9 gates and 17 presentations). Besides, the legal shooter stood already in 16 Playoff parts (DEL) his man. ' James acts on the ice very much deliberately. Thereby he will lend us in the play opening additional stability ', discusses Jason Dunham. The Canadian by birth ' owns a German passport and does not fall with it under the foreign contingent.

Max Renner (24) already counted in the past season to the enlarged cadre of the Mitchell troop, because the Defender was equipped with a conveyor license. The Rosenheimer learned the small hockey multiplication table in the Mangfall, went through there all promising teams and debuts fast in the first team. Meanwhile his life shows more than 100 DEL2 appearances. ' With the change to Straubing Max tackles the next step on the career leader ', according to Jason Dunham. ' He fascinates by German virtues like ambition and straight play. Besides, he behaves very cleverly. Now we want to help him to gain a foothold in the first league ', Dunham discloses the angedachte approach.

The contract term of Dimitri Pätzold, James Bettauer as well as Max Renner amounts in each case a year.

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

The Vernon Vipers would like to announce that the ‘Voice of the Vernon Vipers’ will be returning for another season. Team Executive Vice President Todd Miller made the announcement this morning that Graham Turnbull will be returning for his fourth season behind the microphone with the BCHL club.

Miller also announced the team will be broadcasting it’s games again back on 1075 KISS FM. The local radio station will be carrying 44 games including all the away games plus all playoff games home and away. BDM Motorsports have also signed on to be the parent sponsor of the 2016-17 broadcasts. The team is hoping to release it’s entire upcoming schedule in the near future.

1075 KISS FM is pleased to announce that BDM Motorsports will be the parent sponsor of Vernon Vipers hockey on KISS FM this fall. BCHL fans will be able to hear 44 games this coming season including all away games.

Vernon Vipers Executive Vice President Todd Miller thanked BDM Motorsports for stepping up to be the sponsor for next season.

"For us it's important to have our games (44) on local radio. it allows us to reach out to the fans and not only the ones when we are on the road but also those who can't get out to the games. It's very exciting to be ack with the radio station as well."

The upcoming schedule is expected to be released soon. Watch the BDM Motorsports welcome video below.

Monday, June 27, 2016

The East Coast Hockey League announced their Protected Lists as submitted by each of its member teams. The Florida Everblades have twenty five players listed on their protected list one is former Vernon Vipers defenceman Rob Florentino.After three seasons at the University of Massachusetts Florentino joined the East Coast Hockey League Las Vegas Wranglers in the 2012-13 season. Florentino has played the past three seasons in the East Coast Hockey League and Southern Professional League with four different teams (Huntsville, Reading, Elmira & Florida). In 57 games this past season with the Everblades Florentino picked up (5-goals-6-assists-11-points).Florentino attended the 2009 Vernon Vipers Training Camp playing in a few exhibition games before being released. The Vipers with the league limit six twenty year olds at that time were forced to release Florentino who was twenty years old. Florentino later signed with the Victoria Grizzlies where he started the 2009-2010 regular season.

ESTERO, FL – The Florida Everblades announced Thursday their protected list of players. The list of 25 players is comprised of ten defensemen and 15 forwards. This is the first of a three-step process in which ECHL teams use to reserve the rights to ECHL contracted players for the 2016-17 season

Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association which state that teams shall retain the rights to each player that:

1. Signed an SPC in 2015-16 with the Member, and has not been traded or released, OR

2. Signed an SPC in 2015-16, and was recalled to the NHL/AHL or IIHF team, and has not been traded or released, OR

3. Had received a Qualifying Offer last summer for the current Season, DID NOT sign an SPC, and has not been traded or released, OR

4. Has been suspended by the Member or League, and has not been traded or released, OR

5. Signed an SPC on or after the first day of the 2015-16 Regular Season, then subsequently signed an NHL/AHL contract, and has not been traded or released, OR

6. Has executed the ECHL Retirement Form, and has not been traded or released.

Protected lists may exceed 20 players.

The ECHL also announced that teams must complete all Future Consideration trades by 3 p.m. ET on June 13 and that teams must submit their Season-Ending Roster by 3 p.m. ET on June 15.

Season-ending rosters may include up to 20 players and cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2015-16.

2016-17 Season Opener!

The Everblades are already preparing for the 2016-17 season, which begins at home on October 14 & 15 against the Greenville Swamp Rabbits!

To view the team’s complete schedule for the 2016-17 regular season CLICK HERE

2016-17 Season Ticket Plans Now Available: Full and flexible partial season ticket plans are currently available for the 2016-17 season. We offer several tickets packages designed to help fit your budget and schedule. For more information, call 239-948-7825, or stop by the team’s main office located at Germain Arena from Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Sunday, June 26, 2016

I found these press releases off team websites, twitter accounts, blogs or online. All Vipers news-trades are posted on this blog as soon as released-announced.

BCHL News & Trades:Ross Commits To Eagles:

Jackson Ross, a 19-year-old defenceman who played last season with the Kamloops Storm of the KIJHL, has committed to the Surrey Eagles for the 2016-2017 season. The 6-foot, 172-pound Ross led all defencemen on his team last year with 26 points. Ross is an American-born player, originally hailing from Centennial, Colorado, where he played two years of hockey with Cherry Creek High School. He will be a welcome addition to the team’s back end, as his puck-moving ability will be put to use. His 23 assists were the second-most on his team last season, despite being a defenceman. SurreyEagles.ca reached out to Ross, who revealed more about his ability to dish the puck. “I think my biggest strength is my hockey IQ. I try to make good decisions on the ice. I also love to pass the puck, because I see the game well. Making that quick, strong pass to set up a teammate is a great feeling.” When it was time to decide where to play in 2016-2017, the Surrey Eagles were at the top of his list. His philosophies as a hockey player, and desire to win meshed well with the current coaching staff. That made it feel like a good fit. “My coaches in Kamloops really recommended that I commit to the Eagles. They had great things to say,” explained Ross. “I want to be part of a team that is hungry for success and growth. Looking at the youth of the team and its recent commitments, I know that we have great potential and better days lie ahead. As an added bonus, Surrey seems like a great place to play hockey and experience life! The team has great facilities, and I doubt that there is a better rink and dressing room in the league. I don’t think there is a better place for me to be next year.” BC interior scout and assistant coach Craig Sterzer initially contacted Ross about the potential of moving to the BCHL. Ross made a very strong impression on the staff that watched him play. It was clear that he had outgrown the KIJHL, and was ready for the next challenge. “The KIJHL was a fantastic experience, but it didn’t have the depth of talent that the BCHL has. The speed and the pace of play is much higher at the BCHL level, and it’s a faster, rougher, more skilled game. I know, without a doubt, that I can skate and compete with the players at this level.” Ross now plans on spending the rest of the summer mentally and physically preparing himself, on and off the ice. “I’m hoping to play a big role on the team this year as both a productive player, and a leader. I want to be a dependable defenceman that is capable of logging a lot of minutes.”“Most importantly, I’m ready to compete and to help restore a winning mindset.”

Kings Add To Next Season’s Roster:

Powell River Kings continue to announce names of new players who have committed to the team for the 2016/17 BC Hockey League (BCHL) season. Last season the team came up short in the BCHL Island Division final, but Kings head coach Kent Lewis is looking ahead to the next season. “We had a lot of new guys come in and play key roles,” said Lewis. “I think they’ll benefit this year, and so will the team with that experience.” A starting goaltender is the biggest hole to fill for the Kings, following the departures of 20-year-old Jeff Smith, who has moved on to start his college career at St. Cloud State of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, and Stefan Wornig, who was traded to Prince George Spruce Kings in April to complete a deal that brought defenceman Adam Brubacher to the Kings in January. Kings have a commitment from 18-year-old goaltender Mitch Adamyk from Winnipeg, Manitoba. For the past two seasons, Adamyk played for the Winnipeg Wild of the Manitoba Midget Hockey League, posting a 2.01 goals against average and a save percentage of .930 in 2015/16. Already returning to the Kings on defence are Andy Stevens, a rookie last season, Brandon Kennedy and Jack Long. Jake Kohlhauser will be coming back as well. “We return with four defencemen,” said Lewis, “that’s a good core.” Offensively, the club has commitments from some strong new players. In April, the team announc highly-touted left winger Ben Berard, a seventh-round pick in the Western Hockey League bantam draft, will be coming to town. “He’s a very, very skilled young player,” said Lewis. “Like all rookies, he’ll take a little time to adjust. He’ll attract a lot of division one interest.” Berard scored 58 points in 36 games with Shawnigan Lake School Bantam Prep in Canadian Sports School Hockey League action last season. Also in April, Kings signed forward Josh Coblenz from the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League’s Campbell River Storm. Coblenz played five games as an affiliate for the Kings last season. Right winger Cam Donaldson, a 17-year-old American player, will join the Kings forward ranks. The young Texan spent last season at the Gunnery, a prep school in Connecticut, and scored 50 points in 32 games. Donaldson already has a college commitment with Cornell University. “He’s very speedy, and I like his compete, skill set and his work ethic. He’ll definitely figure into our top-six forward group,” said Lewis. Forwards Tristan Mullin, Kyle Betts, Jonny Evans and Carter Turnbull are expected to return to the Kings for another season. Lewis said forward will be a contested position. Lewis has set August 22 as the start date for the Kings main training camp. Kings have also announced that Craig Beauchemin, former broadcaster for North Battleford North Stars of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, will be the team’s new play-by-play announcer, replacing Alex Rawnsley.

Amonte & Kamps Commit To Vees:

The Penticton Vees Jr. ‘A’ Hockey Club is pleased to announce the commitments of prep school forwards Ty Amonte (98) and Jacob Kamps (97) for the 2016-17 season. “Both had successful seasons playing prep hockey in Massachusetts last year and will bring different qualities to our line-up. We expect Jacob and Ty to step in and make an immediate impact to our forward group,” said President, General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson. Amonte, 18, played at Thayer Academy in Braintree, Massachusetts, for the past four seasons and had a standout senior year, amassing 17 goals and 70 points in just 30 games. Those numbers earned him the Boston Bruins’ John Carlton Memorial Trophy, as the top male high school player in eastern Massachusetts. Amonte was one of two players last season to hit the 70-point plateau at Thayer Academy, a first for the school since Jeremy Roenick tallied 84 points in 1988. The Norwell, Massachusetts, native compiled 151 points in 111 games in his four years of prep hockey, and is the son of former NHLer Tony Amonte, who played over 1,100 games and collected 900 points in 17 seasons. Ty is already committed to Boston University for the 2017-18 season. Kamps, 19, just completed prep school hockey at Cushing Academy in Ashburnham, Massachusetts. The Picking, Ontario, native averaged over a point per-game with Cushing collecting 11 goals and 28 points in 24 games. Kamps possesses great physical attributes standing at 6’3 and weighing in at over 200 pounds, and is a prototypical power-forward. Like Amonte, Kamps is a winger but can play both the left and right side. This spring he also played for the U-18 Boston Jr. Bruins in the Massachusetts Select League, scoring 13 goals and 19 points in 12 games. Kamps too has already committed to a Division l program, as he will join the University of Vermont in the fall of 2017. Amonte and Kamps will join the team in August in time for the Vees’ Main Camp at the SOEC.

Cowichan-Trail Trade:

The Smoke Eaters have acquired 96 Defenceman, Carter Cochrane and 96 Forward Luke Santerno, two 20 year old players from the Cowichan Valley Capitals in exchange for 97 Forward, Max Newton and 98 Defenceman, Nii Noi Tetteh. Assistant Coach, Curtis Toneff, is excited to bring in two veterans like Luke and Carter. “Carter is an offensive D-man who hails from Kamploops BC and is a veteran of over 100 games of junior hockey split between the WHL and the BCHL. He was also a member of the BCHL’s all rookie team and a second team All Star in the 2013/14 season.” Luke is a big, rangy cetreman and good on draws. He makes smart plays all over the ice. His career started with the 100-Mile House Wranglers of the KIJHL in their inagural season, before moving on to play the last two seasons with the Cowichan Valley Capitals. He is from Smithers, BC.” The Smoke Eater organization welcome Luke and Carter to the Smoke Eater family. We would like to thank Max and Nii Noi for there dedication to the Smoke Eater organization. We know that Max will leave his mark in the BCHL and know that Nii Noi will answer the bell when things get tough. We wish both players success in Cowichan Valley.

Schneider Commits To Spruce Kings:

The Prince George Spruce Kings are excited to announce the commitment of 18 year old forward Travis Schneider to the team for the upcoming season. The 5’11” 175 pound Schneider is from Highland Park, Illinois but currently calls Palm Beach Gardens, Florida home. He played Prep Hockey last season for Canterbury School based in New Milford, Connecticut. At Canterbury, Schneider was a team captain and scored 16 goals and had 16 assists for 32 points in 30 games. “We are excited to add a player like Travis to our team. He’s a very intelligent player, skates well, sees the ice well and prides himself in being a complete 200 foot player. We were recently able to watch Travis play at a showcase in Boston and his abilities and his compete level stood out immediately. He will be able to step into our lineup next season and contribute at both ends of the ice” said Spruce Kings General Manager Mike Hawes. “When I talked to Coach Chad he explained the type of culture and environment he was trying to create in the Spruce Kings’ locker room. He talked about how he wants players that are going to give 100% effort day in and day out and that’s something I am really excited to be a part of. I believe my attitude and effort reflect what Coach Chad wants to see on and off the ice. I am extremely excited to be a part of the Spruce Kings’ organization” said new Spruce King player Travis Schneider. Travis Schneider will join the rest of his Spruce Kings team mates just prior to the start of the team’s main training camp on August 25th.Barnstable, Ripplinger & Babichuk Commit To Penticton:

The Penticton Vees Jr. ‘A’ Hockey Club is pleased to announce that forwards Ty Barnstable (98) and Turner Ripplinger (98), and defenceman Cory Babichuk (98) have committed for the 2016-17 season. “All three had very productive seasons within their respective midget leagues and we are thrilled to add young talented pieces to our line-up for the upcoming season,” commented Vees’ President, General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson. Barnstable and Ripplinger played their 17-year-old seasons with the Regina Pat Canadians in the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League (SMAAAHL) and both call Regina home. Barnstable hand a banner year with the Pat C’s, as he was named the SMAAAHL MVP, Top Forward and named to the league’s First All-Star Team. The winger had 22 goals, 31 assists for 53 points in 43 games. He led Regina in scoring and finished seconds in the league in assists and fifth in the scoring race; he had another four goals in six playoff games. Two seasons ago Barnstable, along with current Vee Owen Sillinger, won the SMAAHL championship and helped guide Regina to a third place finish at the Telus Cup, the National Midget Championship. His teammate was no slouch either. Ripplinger finished right behind Barnstable in team scoring with 22 goals and 46 points in 43 games; he finished 10th in league scoring. Ripplinger, who also plays the wing, turned heads at the Mac’s AAA Hockey Tournament in Calgary back in December, leading the entire tournament in scoring. Ripplinger was a point per-game player in the playoffs for the Pat Canadians, notching six assists in as many games. Ripplinger split two seasons of midget hockey in Saskatchewan between Regina and Moose Jaw. In 86 games in the SMAAHL he tallied 34 goals and 77 points. Babichuk is also entering his 18-year-old year and hails from Edmonton, Alberta. The rear-guard played the past two seasons in the Alberta Midget Hockey League (AMHL) with the CAC Edmonton Canadians. Babichuk wore the ‘C’ this year for the Canadians and collected 21 points in 30 games from the blue-line. His strong play at the midget level has already landed him an NCAA Division l commitment to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and as of now, is scheduled to enroll in the fall of 2017. Former Vees that have played for the RPI Engineers include Luke Curadi, Bo Dolan and Louie Nanne. The Vees organization is excited to welcome Cory, Ty and Turner to the team and look forward to seeing them at Main Camp in August.

Nanaimo Clippers Alumni & Former NHLer LeNeveu The New Face Of Clippers Ownership:

The Nanaimo Clippers announced a high-profile alumnus as a new face of ownership. The city’s B.C. Hockey League club held a press conference Wednesday to introduce former NHLer David LeNeveu as president and governor of the team. “The Clippers were a big jump-start to my career as a professional hockey player and I want to give back to that and I also enjoy watching them develop, the next crop of players,” he said. LeNeveu tended goal for the Clippers in 2000-01, went on to Cornell University and then played pro hockey including stints with the Phoenix Coyotes, Columbus Blue Jackets and New York Rangers. He and his family have lived in Nanaimo for 12 years, and he has recently helped out as a goaltending coach with the Clippers. The 33-year-old said joining the ownership group made a lot of sense at this stage in his career and life. The Clippers’ out-of-province ownership group had long been looking for a local representative, said Ken Wagner, the team’s co-owner. Mike Vandekamp, Clippers coach and general manager, said he’s been supporting and endorsing a greater role for LeNeveu for a long time. “I think it’s an important step for our organization,” Vandekamp said. “We’ve made some good strides in the last few years … and I think this just gives us another sort of boost of nitrous to give us a push in the right direction.” Though the move was only officially announced this week, LeNeveu was already in place as governor in time to attend the BCHL’s annual general meeting this month. His new role will be to oversee all operations of the Clippers, he said, and a major part of that is to try to help build excitement and passion surrounding the team. “We’ll develop a plan going forward to re-engage this community to come on board and hopefully fill this arena with fans and have that support that everybody dreams of having,” LeNeveu said. Another priority will be maintaining and expanding sponsorships with local businesses. “We want to establish the relationship that’s expected from both sides, with their involvement with the team and our support and follow-up with them,” LeNeveu said. “We really have to solidify that within this community.” In the past, he’s cheered for the Clippers as a coach, alumnus and fan, but he expects to have even more emotional investment now in wins and losses. “[It’s] going to be a lot higher,” he said. “Our goal is always to develop the players first here, but it’s also to win and win a championship, as well. That’s something that’s very difficult to do. And I’ll be the first one out of my seat when we score that winning goal and win a championship.”

Silverbacks Give Head Coach West Contract Extention:

The Salmon Arm Silverbacks have re-signed head coach Brandon West to a contract extention, the team announced on Monday. The Silverbacks hired the 31-year-old in August of 2012 as an assistant coach and 2 years later became the head coach in 2014-2015 season. He will enter his third full season as head coach in 2016-17 season. Team General Manager Troy Mick believes West has brought the team a long way both on and off the ice. “He’s done a great job taking it from where we were a few years ago and getting it to the stage where it’s at right now,” he said. “It’s great progress.” This past season, West led the Backs to a 29-20-5-4 regular-season record for 69 points, 3rd in the Interior Division. The team made the play-offs for the 1st time since the 2012-2013 season. Brandon’s overall Head coaching record in 2 seasons in Salmon Arm is 57-41-11-7. “I am very grateful and appreciative of the ownership group giving me the extension and opportunity to be a part of the team/community”. I’ve enjoyed my 4 seasons here in Salmon Arm and look forward to this upcoming season and continuing on what we did last season. Stated Brandon West. West would like to have a new assistant coach in place by the end of June as last years assistant coach Misko Antisin is the new Head coach with the Silverbacks Jr A team in Steamboat Springs, Colorado named the Wranglers of the RMJHL, but isn’t in a rush. At the very latest, he wants to have the position filled prior to training camp in August.

Prince George-Battlefords Trade:

The Prince George Spruce Kings acquired future considerations from the Battlefords North Stars of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League for 19-year-old forward Connor Logan on Monday. Logan, a Victoria native who turns 20 on June 21st, had 19 points (9-10-19) in 53 games with the Spruce Kings this season as a rookie. He's a veteran of 134 games in the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League, posting 160 (58-102-160) over three seasons. Logan made his junior A debut with Powell River in 2014-15, getting into eight games as an affiliate player and posting one assist. He also played two games with the Kings in the 2015 BCHL Fred Page Cup playoffs.

Saturday, June 25, 2016

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Missouri Mavericks have traded the rights to former Vernon Vipers forward Connor Jones to the Norfolk Admirals.The Mavericks signed Jones to a contract September 24 2015. Jones never played a game with Missouri, landed a try out just days later with the American Hockey League (AHL) Bridgeport Sound Tigers. Jones attend the Sound Tigers training camp, made the Sound Tigers roster, signed a contract with

Bridgeport December 6th 2016. Jones spent the entire 2015-16 season with the Sound Tigers. In 51 games last year Jones collected (6-goals-7-assists-13-points).After four years at Quinnipiac University Jones signed his first pro contract with the American Hockey League (AHL) Oklahoma City Barons April 3rd 2014 before splitting the 2014-15 season between the ECHL & AHL.Jones played four years in Vernon (2006-2010). In 163 regular season games with the Vipers collected (80-goals-118-assists-198-points) Jones is the Vipers all-time franchise points leader (regular season & playoffs) with 228 & all-time franchise goals leader (regular season & playoffs) with 95.Connor Jones Player Profile:

NORFOLK, Va. - The Norfolk Admirals announce several roster moves today, including the release of three players signed in the last week as well as two players from the Missouri Mavericks.

The Admirals received forward Scott Allen and the rights to forward Connor Jones as a part of the deal over the summer that sent Sebastien Sylvestre to the Mavericks. Allen, 25, finished a four-year career at the University of Alaska-Anchorage last season, and subsequently played his first nine games as a pro with the Colorado Eagles. The 6-foot-3, 198-pounder out of Edmonton recorded his first professional assist and point with Colorado, and has two goals and two helpers through five games this season with Missouri.

Jones, 25, is a 5-foot-9 and 176-pound attacker from Montrose, B.C. who is currently on the Bridgeport Sound Tigers' roster in the American Hockey League (AHL). Jones has not scored in seven games for Bridgeport, but logged four goals and 10 points in 46 career previous AHL games with Oklahoma City. He has yet to suit up in an ECHL contest in 2015-16, but put up 10-16=26 points with Bakersfield last season over 27 games.

As for the past week, Norfolk added several players, including goaltender Tyler Beskorowany and forwards Thomas Gobeil, Christophe Lalonde, Peter MacIntyre, Steve Mele and Quinn Smith. While MacIntyre and Smith remain with the Admirals, Gobeil, Lalonde and Mele have been released. Beskorowany was recalled by Springfield (AHL).

Gobeil, 21, appeared in four games with the Admirals, including his professional debut, but did not register a point. Lalonde, 21, participated in three games without a point. Mele, 26, skated in four contests and did not enter the scoresheet.

Beskorowany, 25, went 0-2-0 in three games for Norfolk and accumulated a 2.78 goals-against average and .927 save percentage.

The Admirals return home on Wednesday, November 25, for a four-game homestand. Family Fun Packs and $10 Student Rush tickets are available at the Scope Box Office on game day. Those interested in purchasing Student Rush admission should bring a valid college or high school ID to the box office after 2 p.m. on game day. Individual tickets are also available for purchase at the Scope Box Office, ticketmaster.com, and charge-by-phone at 1-800-745-3000.

Friday, June 24, 2016

The East Coast Hockey League announced their Protected Lists as submitted by each of its member teams. The Cincinnati Cyclones have twenty three players listed on their protected list one is former Vernon Vipers defenceman Steve Weinstein.Weinstein finished his first full professional season this past year, started the season in Cincinnati after signing with the Cyclones July 15, 2015 before signing with the American Hockey League (AHL) Lake Erie Monsters December 27th 2015. After playing in four games with the Monsters Weinstein picked up one assist before returning to the East Coast Hockey League. In 52 games last season with Cincinnati Weinstein collected (3-goals-19-assists-22-points).Weinstein finished his fourth and final year with Bentley University in 2014-15 before signing an amateur try-out contract with the American Hockey League (AHL) Springfield Falcons on March 23rd 2015. Weinstein had just one assist in three games with the Falcons.Weinstein played three seasons in Vernon (2008-2011) in 153 regular season games with the Vipers collected (10-goals-49-assists-59-points).Steve Weinstein's Player Profile:

*Italics indicate player did not appear in 2015-16 regular season games for Cyclones

Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish, provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association, which state that teams shall retain the rights to each player that:
1. Signed an SPC in 2015-16 with the Member, and has not been traded or released .

2. Signed an SPC in 2015-16, and was recalled to the NHL/AHL or IIHF team, and has not been traded or released .

3. Had received a Qualifying Offer last summer for the current Season, DID NOT sign an SPC, and has not been traded or released.

4. Has been suspended by the Member or League, and has not been traded or released .

5. Signed an SPC on or after the first day of the 2015-16 Regular Season, then subsequently signed an NHL/AHL contract, and has not been traded or released .

6. Has executed the ECHL Retirement Form, and has not been traded or released.

The ECHL also announced that teams must complete all Future Consideration trades by 3 p.m. ET on June 13 and that teams must submit their Season-Ending Roster by 3 p.m. ET on June 15. Season-ending rosters may include up to 20 players and cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2015-16.

The countdown to the 2016-17 First Face-Off is underway! The Cyclones will return to U.S. Bank Arena on Saturday, October 15 when they host the Indy Fuel at 7:35pm. Between now and then, be on the lookout for several offseason events like Meijer Concrete Clones! Additionally, 2016-17 Season Ticket Packages are available NOW! Call 513.421.PUCK to reserve your seats. Fans can also get the latest team updates throughout the offseason on Facebook, Twitter (@CincyCyclones), and Instagram, along with our website, www.cycloneshockey.com!

Thursday, June 23, 2016

HC Mikron Nové Zámky or known as in English (HC New Locks) have signed former Vernon Vipers forward Brandon Marino. HC New Locks is a Slovak ice hockey club in New Zámky , that plays in the Tipsport League. Marino started last season with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Brampton Beast, picked up (13-goals-28-assists-41-points) in 40 games before signing a Professional Tryout Contract (PTO) with the American Hockey League (AHL) Uitca Comets January 12th 2016. Marino was released February 10th 2016 after scoring once in eight games with Utica before signing with the Comets for a second time February 26 2016. In 30 games with the Comets Marino collected (4-goals-0-assists-4-points).After four years with Bemidji State University Marino spent the next five seasons playing in four different leagues (IHL, CHL, ECHL & AHL) with three different teams (Quad City, Fort Wayne & Norfolk) before playing in Hungary during the 2014-15 season.

NEW LOCKS — the highest hockey competition Newcomer HC New Locks has agreed to cooperate with American invaders Brandonom Marino. Dvadsaťdeväťročný a native of Riverside, who comes from the Utica Comets, AHL, the band signed a contract for one year.

'Brandon is a further 20,000 reinforcements from beyond the sea, that the hockey side puts on our Jersey. We expect him to improve offensive series and we believe that their goals will delight more memorable fan, 'said marketing and Media Manager HC Nové Zámky Jacob Takáč.

Next season will be presented in a multinational EBEL League, where dressing up Jersey Hungarian Székesfehérváru. Including playoff games, during which 56 joined on to your account, scored 40 points (12 goals and 28 assists). After a season in Europe to the United States, where he returned on a contract deal with the Brampton Beast playing ECHL. As the captain of the ' Beasts ' he played 40 matches and scored thirteen goals and racked up a total of 41 points. At the end of February, has signed a contract with the AHL Club in the prestigious trial Utica, where 34 matches and scored four goals in Comets. From the new season oblieče Brandon Marino Jersey HC New Locks.

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

The Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) Krefeld Pinguine (Krefeld Penguins) have re-signed former Vernon Vipers forward Mike Collins. The Pinguine is an ice hockey team in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga hockey league. Their home is in Krefeld, North-Rhine-Westphalia, Germany at the König Palast.

Collins will be entering his second season with the Pinguine this coming season after signing June 1 2015. In 52 games last year Collins collected (10-goals-15-assists-25-points).

After four years at Merrimack College Collins turned pro in early March 2014. Collins signed a Professional Try Out (PTO) contract with the American Hockey League (AHL) Providence Bruins on March 11th 2014. Collins went pointless in four games with the Bruins was released on March 27th 2014. On the same day Collins signed his second pro contract with the AHL Iowa Wild before being released after going pointless in six games. Collins headed to Germany where he played the 2014-15 season with the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) Kassel Huskies. The Huskies are a professional ice hockey team based in Kassel, Hesse, Germany that play in the Deutsche Eishockey
Liga Hockey League.

Collins played two season's in Vernon (2008-2010) In 119 regular season games with the Vipers Collins recorded (55-goals-71-assists-126-points).

After the season is in front of the season! The krefeld pinguine are working flat out on the upcoming 2016/17 Season and could be right with three players of the current cadre, extend it. Steve Hanusch, Norman Hauner and Mike Collins will also be available in the next season the black-and-Yellow Jersey. Hanusch is since 2012, hauner since 2014 and Mike Collins since last season a penguin.

Franz Fritz Meier, head coach krefeld pinguine: " we're in the middle of the planning for the upcoming season. Steve and Norman have their potential not yet quite exhausted and should strengthen our German base, Mike Collins, we have an option."

Rüdiger Noack, sporty consultant krefeld pinguine: " we are now gradually speak with all candidates and the team of the 2016/17 Season, put together with care. In doing so, we want a good mix of young and learn bring on the ice."

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

On June 2nd 2016 the East Coast Hockey League announced their Protected Lists as submitted by each of its member teams. The Missouri Mavericks have nineteen players listed on their protected list two of are former Vernon Vipers forwards Darren Nowick & Kellen Jones.

Nowick finished his fourth and final year at Northern Michigan University signed his first professional contract with the Mavericks March 16 2016. In 13 games with the Mavericks Nowick collected (2-goals-5-assists-7-points). Nowick played two years in Vernon (2010-2012) playing in 109 games with the Vipers collecting (36-goals-50-assists-86-points).

Jones started the season with the Mavericks after signing on September 24th 2015. Jones landed a try out with the American Hockey League (AHL) Bridgeport Sound Tigers (September 30th 2015) was released before being sent back to Missouri. Jones was loaned to the American Hockey League Bakersfield Condors before returning to the Mavericks February 17th 2016. Jones would finish the remainder of the season in the American Hockey League after signing with the Uitca Comets March 3 2016. In 21 games with the Comets Jones picked up (3-goals-2-assists-5-points).After four years at Quinnipiac University, Jones signed his first pro contract with the American Hockey League (AHL) Oklahoma City Barons on April 3rd 2014. Jones spent the 2014-15 season playing in both the AHL & ECHL with Oklahoma City & Bakersfield. Jones played four years in Vernon (2006-2010) playing in 154 regular season games with the Vipers collecting (39-goals-134-assists-173-points). Jones is also the all-time franchise assists leader (regular season & playoffs) with 150. Jones was drafted in Round 7 of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft #202 overall by the Edmonton Oilers.

The ECHL on Thursday announced the Protected Lists as submitted by each of its Member teams.

Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association which state that teams shall retain the rights to each player that:

1. Signed an SPC in 2015-16 with the Member, and has not been traded or released, OR

2. Signed an SPC in 2015-16, and was recalled to the NHL/AHL or IIHF team, and has not been traded or released, OR

3. Had received a Qualifying Offer last summer for the current Season, DID NOT sign an SPC, and has not been traded or released, OR

4. Has been suspended by the Member or League, and has not been traded or released, OR

5. Signed an SPC on or after the first day of the 2015-16 Regular Season, then subsequently signed an NHL/AHL contract, and has not been traded or released, OR

6. Has executed the ECHL Retirement Form, and has not been traded or released.

Protected lists may exceed 20 players.

The ECHL also announced that teams must complete all Future Consideration trades by 3 p.m. ET on June 13 and that teams must submit their Season-Ending Roster by 3 p.m. ET on June 15.

Season-ending rosters may include up to 20 players and cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2015-16.

Monday, June 20, 2016

I found these press releases off team websites, twitter accounts, blogs or online. All Vipers news-trades are posted on this blog as soon as released-announced.BCHL News & Trades:Eagles Name Hemingway New Assistant Coach:

The Surrey Eagles have made a key addition to their coaching staff for the upcoming season. Colin Hemingway, a forward for the team in the late 90s, has returned to the organization. He will join Blaine Neufeld and Brad Tobin behind the bench as an assistant coach. Hemingway played 117 games for the then-named South Surrey Eagles from 1997 to 1999, recording 132 points. He scored 40 goals in his final season with the team, before accepting an NCAA division I scholarship to attend the University of New Hampshire. That same year, he was selected in the 8th round, 221st overall by the St. Louis Blues in the NHL draft. After four successful years of NCAA hockey with the UNH Wildcats, Hemingway would embark on a nine-year professional career. He spent two years in the minor leagues before playing three games for the St. Louis Blues during the 2005-2006 NHL season. His career would then take him through Germany, Scotland, and Ireland, before finishing with the Wichita Thunder of the Central Hockey League in 2012. In total, Hemingway boasts the experience of 412 professional games played. “I’m really excited,” Hemingway said in an interview with SurreyEagles.ca. “I’ve always wanted to give back to hockey. I think my resume in pro hockey – 9 years, being drafted, going to university – shows that I have a lot to give to the players, this team, and this community. I know what it takes to get to the next level, both on the ice and off the ice. Hopefully I can relay some of my experiences to the players, and help them any way I can.” Hemingway, now 35 years old, has resided in White Rock since his playing career ended four years ago. As a proud member of the community, the urge to get back into the game and return to his former junior team was too hard to resist. “I want to get this program back to where it needs to be, where it should be. We need to get into a position where we’re winning hockey games, and are competitive on the ice every night. We have a great head coach in Blaine [Neufeld], it’s a great community, and it’s an unbelievable rink. It’s a good fit for me.” For Neufeld, who also acts as the team’s general manager, he sees it as a unique opportunity to bring a former member of the team back into the fold. “It’s a unique situation. Colin still lives in the community where he played junior hockey, and he has the desire to give back. He has so much to offer the kids in our program with his experience.” “We’ve been working hard all summer to recruit high-end players, and now to be able to add somebody like Colin to our staff, it shows the positive progression that we’re making.” As Neufeld noted, Hemingway’s experience makes him a valuable resource for the Eagles’ players. His knowledge of the NCAA route, and path to the NHL with the Blues should be an immense help for players that are looking to follow in his footsteps. “When you play all over the world like I did, you definitely pick up a few things,” Hemingway recalled. “I had several different coaches, and many of them left lasting impressions. I want to be a coach that leaves a lasting impression.”

Penticton Vees Run For Title Starts Now:

The RBC Cup championship that saw division rival West Kelowna Warriors claim the national title only ended on Sunday, but the Penticton Vees have already begun the process of next season’s run for the title. From May 26 to 29, the Vees will be holding their annual spring camp. Consisting mostly of scrimmages, the camp will have six full teams alternating on the ice all day from about 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Vees coach and general manager Fred Harbinson said this is a very important part of the process of building the team, and he explained what he’s looking for from players. “Whenever we build our teams, you’re looking for all kinds of different players,” Harbinson said. “You don’t want all the same type of player. We always tell the kids there’s a reason they’ve been invited, so we ask them just to play their game.” Harbinson is expecting to have six to nine returning players on the Vees this coming season. Although those players haven’t definitively committed yet, that would be an increase over the four players that returned last year. Spring camp is an opportunity for players to make an impression. “There are opportunities to get an invite to our main camp in August,” Harbinson said. “But we’re really looking to build our affiliate list for next year. Over the past few years, probably 85 per cent of the players who have played for the Vees attended our spring camp. “This is all part of the process, the end game is to find 22 players that are on the roster, and 19 players on the affiliate list. We’ll get there with some combination of ‘x’ players from spring camp, free agency and main camp. There’s no set goal.” Having all of the players together for spring camp is not only critical for the players chances to make the team this year or in the future, but also for the coaches evaluation process. “You watch players spread out from different leagues and teams, now you get them under your roof and get to meet them and see them face to face,” Harbinson said. “It’s important to see how guys perform in that pressure situation. There are guys you’re excited about and then they get to camp and don’t do as much, and there are guys who are the opposite, they come out of nowhere.” The spring camp will begin on Thursday with fitness testing, before wrapping up the scrimmages Sunday around 1 p.m.

Trail-Langley Trade:

The Trail Smoke Eaters have announced a trade with the Langley Rivermen. Cooper Leitch of the Smokies has been dealt to Langley for defenceman Troy Ring. Troy heralds from North Vancouver and is 19 years old. He is 6′ 1″ and weighs 188 pounds. Troy played in the Pacific Junior Hockey League (PJHL) for the North Van Wolf Pack. In two and a half seasons with the Wolf Pack he played in 94 games and had 14 goals and 27 assists for 41 points. Half way through the 2015/16 season he was signed by the Rivermen and in 23 games had 4 goals and 4 assists for 8 points. Assistant Coach, of the Smokies, Curtis Toneff, stated, “Troy will be relied upon to play in all situations and will be an asset to our Power Play. We have heard nothing but good things about Troy as a player and person. We’d like to welcome Troy to the Smoke Eater Family.” “We would like to thank Cooper for his tireless effort on and off the ice and wish him the best in Langley.”

Anderson Leaves Warriors:

Vernon’s Kyle Anderson has left the West Kelowna Warriors during their RBC Cup run. The Warriors play by play guy is now in the process of moving to Chilliwack for a new job. Word was let loose on twitter after the Warriors clinched the Western Canada Cup. No official word on what job Anderson will be taking, but the Warriors will be looking for a new broadcaster for next season.

Hill Joins Wild Front Office:

The Wenatchee Wild, proud member of the BCHL, are pleased to announce the latest addition to the front office, Tim Hill. He joins the Wild family to run day to day business operations. Hill’s playing days included a year of major junior hockey with the Peterborough Petes (OHL), followed by four years at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He followed up his collegiate career by playing minor pro hockey for four years. Off the ice, he gravitated to the front office, serving as Director of Sales & Marketing for the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs for 5 seasons in the WPHL & CHL. He also spent five seasons as the GM of the Rapid City Rush (CHL). Wild Head Coach / GM Bliss Littler is confident Hill is the right man for the job. “I look forward to working with Tim”, Littler remarked. “He has had tremendous success at the minor pro level, and I’m excited to see how he puts his mark on the Wild.” He notes, “This is an exciting time for the Wenatchee Wild.” Wild owner David White echoes the sentiment. “I am very excited to have Tim joining our team”, White stated. “As our organization continues to grow and develop elite players, his addition was a natural evolution for us. His leadership capabilities and extensive experience will certainly help take us to the next level.” Hill has seen what the Wenatchee Wild have accomplished from afar, and is more than ready to bring his experience to help the franchise continue to strengthen and grow. “I am very excited to join the Wild family, and appreciate the opportunity that the White family has given me”, he said, adding, “I’m looking forward to working with Coach Littler, and the rest of the Wild staff. I have heard nothing but great things about the city, the Town Toyota Center, and the incredible Wild fans. I can’t wait to get going!” Hill is expected to arrive in Wenatchee at the end of May.Casey Commits To Nanaimo:

The Nanaimo Clippers are very pleased to announce that Aidan Casey has committed to play for the Team for the 2016-2017 season. The 1998 born forward joins the Clippers after playing last season for the North York Rangers Midget AAA in the Greater Toronto Hockey League. During the 2015-2016 season the 5’9” 165lb Toronto Ontario native tallied 17 goals and 21 assists for 38 points in 30 games played. Aidan also added 12 goals and 10 assists in 13 playoff games helping the Rangers win the Telus Cup Midget AAA Canadian Championships.

Silverbacks Name Skapski Captain For Next Season:

Salmon Arm Silverbacks today announced the team has appointed 20 year old Abbotsford, BC native Mitch Skapski as the team captain for the 2016-2017 season. “Mitch made an immediate impact on our group last season after he was acquired from the Chilliwack Chiefs at the trade deadline”, Stated Head Coach Brandon West. He is a leader on and off the ice and there is no doubt he will lead by example. Mitch is a mature young man and comes from a great family, we know he is as excited as we are about him leading our team this season. The Silverbacks are currently conducting there USA Spring Camps in Denver, CO & Simi Valley, CA and will be attending the BCHL AGM June 2nd thru the 4th in Richmond, BC.

West Kelowna-Prince George Trade:

The West Kelowna Warriors and Prince George Spruce Kings have finalized their January 7th trade, as forward Brett Mennear (96) will head north to join the Spruce Kings for the 2016/2017 season. The 5’9” 185 pound Mennear is from West Kelowna, B.C. and will join former Warrior Tanner Campbell with Prince George. West Kelowna acquired Bryan Basilico and Jake LeBrun in the deal. Brett Mennear was a big part of the West Kelowna Warriors team that just finished their run as the Fred Page Cup, Western Canada Cup, and Royal Bank Cup NATIONAL Champions. In 2015/2016, Mennear was an assistant captain and had 18 goals and 24 assists for 42 points in 52 regular season games. He added 7 goals and 14 assists for 21 points in 35 playoff games. “Brett was a vital part of our program the last three years and a big part of our RBC team,” Head Coach and General Manager Rylan Ferster said Friday, “to get something you have to give up something and that’s the reality of our business. We would like to thank Brett for his contributions to the program and wish him continued success with the Spruce Kings.” Mennear is committed to play NCAA Division 1 hockey at Bentley University starting in the 2017-2018 season.Hildebrand, Leahy & Nash Commit To Penticton Vees:

The Penticton Vees Jr. ‘A’ Hockey Club is pleased to announce a trio of recruits for the upcoming 2016-17 season. Goaltender Nolan Hildebrand (98), defenceman Joe Leahy (97) and forward Jared Nash (98) will suit up for the Vees in the fall. “We look to recruit not only great players but great people and all three are very well-rounded young men, who not only excel on the ice but away from the rink as well. These three fit the Penticton Vees mould and we’re excited to add them to our program,” stated President, General Manager and Head Coach Fred Harbinson. Hildebrand, 18, spent the past two seasons next door at the Okanagan Hockey Academy (OHA). This past year 6’2 goaltender fashioned together a 16-6-1 record in 24 games with OHA Prep White in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL). Hildebrand was second in the CSSHL Prep Division in wins (16) and save percentage (.939) and fourth in goals-against average (2.04); he also had three shutouts. In all competitions last year, the Summerland, BC, product sported a 22-9-4 record in 37 games and owned a .940 save percentage. Fans may be familiar with the athletic goaltender, as he was an Affiliate Player this past season with the Vees. Joe Leahy and Jared Nash both played for the Stratford Cullitons in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL) last season. The Vees have strong ties to the program, as Mitch Brooks and former Captain Brad McClure both came to Penticton from Stratford. Leahy, 19, had an excellent season on the blue-line for the Cullitons, as he was named the Midwest Conference Defenceman of the Year and First Team All-Star, after racking up 19 goals and 48 points in 44 regular season games. The Waterloo, Ontario, native was fifth in team scoring and fourth among defencemen in the GOJHL. The 6’4, 204 pound rear-guard averaged a point per-game in the playoffs, scoring six goals and 21 points, helping lead the Cullitons to a Cherry Cup title as Midwest Conference champions. In 82 career regular season games in the GOJHL, Leahy amassed 28 goals and 70 points and another 25 points in 36 career playoff games. Nash, 18, finished second in team scoring with 19 goals and 62 points in 45 regular season games, and played in the GOJHL Top Prospects Game and served as an Assistant Captain this past season. His production didn’t fall off in the post-season, as the hometown kid put up six goals and 26 points in 21 playoff games; he had 10 points in five games during the Cherry Cup Final. Nash won a trio of team awards this past season, including the best plus/minus award, the top Stratford Minor Hockey graduate award and the fan’s choice as player of the Year. In 90 career regular season games, the Stratford, Ontario, product amassed 28 goals and 58 assists for 86 points. In 38 career playoff games, Nash had another 10 goals and 35 points. The Vees organization is excited to welcome Nolan, Joe and Jared into the fold and the three will arrive in the South Okanagan in August, for the team’s Main Camp.Solin Commits To Nanaimo:

The Nanaimo Clippers are very pleased to announce that Ben Solin has committed to play for the Team for the 2016-2017 season. The 1997 born forward joins the Clippers after playing the past two seasons at the Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, New Hampshire. During the 2015-2016 season the 5’10”, 175 lb Madison Connecticut native tallied 21 goals and 28 assists for 49 points in 29 games played. Ben is also committed to the NCAA Division 1 Harvard Crimson in the ECAC league.

Lennon Commits To Spruce Kings:

The Prince George Spruce Kings are excited to announce the commitment of 18 year old defenseman Drew Lennon. The 6’2” 180 pound Lennon from Bloomington, Illinois played last season for the Connecticut Oilers of the Eastern Hockey League. With the Oilers, Lennon scored three goals and had 14 assists for 17 points to go along with 31 penalty minutes in 39 games. In six playoff contests he had one assist. Prior to suiting up with the Oilers, Lennon was a member of the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders 16U AAA team where he picked up eight goals and 18 assists en route to making the East Coast Elite League (ECEL) 2014-15 U16 All-Star Team. While playing in Texas with the U14 Ice Jets Academy, Lennon won the national AA title. “Drew has good size, skates very well and has great vision on the ice. He works hard on and off the ice towards improving his overall play. He is the type of player that we are looking for to be a Spruce King. We are excited that he has chosen to join our organization and we look forward to working with him upon his arrival in August.” said Spruce Kings Head Coach Chad van Diemen. Lennon added, “I met coach Chad out in Boston and he explained what they were trying to do there [Prince George] with the culture change. That really caught my attention and is something I want to be a part of. I think I bring some strong defensive play, the ability to get the puck up to the forwards with a good first pass, and get into the rush with my skating. ” said newly acquired Spruce Kings defenseman Drew Lennon. Drew Lennon will join the rest of his Spruce Kings team mates just prior to the start of the team’s main training camp on August 25th.

1990 & 1991 Vernon Lakers Inducted Into Okanagan Sports Hall Of Fame

The 1969-70 & 1971-72 Vernon Essos were inducted into the Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame in November 2014

1999 Vernon Vipers Inducted Into BC Hockey Hall Of Fame

The 1999 Vernon Vipers were inducted into the BC Hockey Hall of Fame In July 2016

On December 2nd 2017 the Vernon Vipers honoured the 1956 Vernon Canadians and former Vernon Esso's legend Wayne Dye. The 1956 Vernon Canadians Allen Cup banner along side Wayne Dye's #8 Legends banner were raised to the rafters at Kal Tire Place

Kal Tire Place-Home to the Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame

The Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1982 through the vision of Vernon resident and sports enthusiast, Nick Alexis. With the support of Vernon City Council, Alexis and a dedicated group of volunteers created a series of outdoor exhibits celebrating the region’s dynamic sporting history in Vernon’s Cenotaph Park. That same year, the new organization unveiled its first round of inductees to the Hall of Fame. Several years later, in 2001, the Hall of Fame moved its exhibits into the newly constructed Vernon Multiplex now known as Kal Tire Place.

About Me

I first created this blog in November of 2008. This coming season will be my ninth season doing this blog. I was born and raised in Vernon, BC and have been going to Junior Hockey games in Vernon since I was a young child. I purchased my first set of season tickets in 1990
I have had season tickets for the last 26 years, Since 1990 I have missed 42 home games.
In September of 2009 I missed my first home game since 2002-03 wich my streak of 236 straight Vipers home games came to an end. Ive missed just three Vipers home games since the 1998-1999 season.
I worked with the Vipers back in 2003-04 as colour comentator helping out with a few games over the internet. In 2011 I helped deisgn, create and put together the Vipers new website for the 2011-12 season. I ran and updated the Vipers website for five seasons, keeping all staff bios and pictures updated, adding new game photos, doing a game preview on game days, as well as adding any Vipers news, scores or BCHL news through out the season.
Over the years I have travelled to Victoria, Dauphin & Camrose to watch the Vipers in the RBC Cup. I was also at the 1990 Centennial Cup & 2014 RBC Cup in Vernon.